CT Scanning

CT (Computed Tomography) scanning is a quick method of scanning that involves lying on a table which moves through a circular gantry with a rotating x-ray beam. These x-rays which are then picked up by an array of sensitive detectors on the gantry and the information converted by a high powered computer processor to give detailed images which can be reviewed and manipulated on a workstation. The scan itself takes only a matter of seconds. Depending on what part of the body is being scanned it may be necessary to drink an oral contrast agent (a fruit or aniseed flavoured drink over about an hour prior to the scan) to show the bowel or to have an intravenous contrast injection into an arm vein to show the blood vessels and internal organs in more detail.

CT scanning has improved dramatically in recent years with the advent of Multidetector CT (MDCT) which enables the radiologist to view scans in multiple planes and create complex 3D reconstructions that assist in planning interventional radiology procedures. CT Angiograms enable the demonstration of arteries in a non-invasive manner and state of the art 64 slice multidetector CT scanners (like that at the Priory Hospital) are fast enough to perform cardiac CT to demonstrate the heart and coronary arteries without interference from the heart beating.

CT scanning is sometimes used as a screening examination particularly for bowel cancer and heart disease for those with relevant risk factors.

Dr. Crowe can offer CT scanning privately at The Priory Hospital, Spire Parkway Hospital and Spire Little Aston Hospital. For further information or to make an appointment please use the contact form or speak to Dr. Crowe’s secretary on 0121 448 1502.